Tackling a DIY home project can be a massive undertaking, but performing the task yourself can also come with a large sense of accomplishment. Sealing your concrete not only helps it look better but also lowers the risks of cracks, discoloration, and other damage. DIY concrete sealing is something that can be done without frustration if you properly prepare beforehand. In this blog, we will share tips on how to ensure that your concrete job looks visually appealing and adds longevity to the concrete space.
Stone Edge Surfaces offers products that make DIY projects a breeze. Our concrete products help homeowners or commercial concrete companies achieve stunning results every time. Concrete patios, driveways, parking garages, walkways, and pool decks can all benefit from products from Stone Edge.
There are many benefits of concrete sealing because it protects this porous surface from bacteria growth, temperature expansion, cracking, and divots. Concrete sealing provides a protective barrier for your concrete spaces and helps enhance your concrete durability.
Utilizing the proper concrete sealer will make your concrete last for many years when it is applied properly. By sealing the surface, you will protect the concrete from chemical exposure, stains, freeze damage, and chipping. Applying the sealer correctly will bring out the natural beauty of your concrete while also preventing additional damage. Homeowners should do thorough research before applying a sealing product if they want to have the highest aesthetic appeal.
All concrete spaces are unique, so the concrete sealing process may vary slightly for different areas or climates. Below are the steps you need to follow for most DIY concrete sealing projects.
Doing the proper prep work before applying a concrete sealer or concrete overlay will ensure it adheres properly to the concrete. Prepping your space requires cleaning off any build-up, stains, and chemicals that could alter the adhesion of the new product. You can pressure wash your concrete or use a hose to rinse off dirt and debris.
An additional step during the prep process is to repair any minor damages beforehand. Applying a sealer to your concrete can prevent further damage, but if cracks or flaking are not remedied beforehand, the sealer will not be able to protect your space properly. Doing the proper prep work before concrete projects will ensure your investment isn’t a waste.
Some concrete spaces may have been sealed previously so it may not accept another sealing product. Sprinkle some water on the surface and see if it beads up. If so, it may be too smooth to bond with a concrete sealer. If the water is absorbed quickly, it is ready for a sealant.
The trickiest step and probably most important step is choosing the best sealer for your project. Two major types of sealers can be used to narrow down your list. Penetrating sealers will soak into the concrete and will not change the look of your concrete space. Film-forming sealers add protection to the top of your concrete and enhance its durability. These sealings can change the color of your concrete and come with a matte, glossy, or natural finish.
Concrete sealers will come with manufacturers’ directions and application details on the packaging. Following these directions will help you achieve the best bond and final result. Especially for those who want DIY concrete sealing, following the instructions to a tee will ensure you use the right tools and the sealer dries completely.
Depending on the sealer you choose, multiple coats may be needed to give you the desired level of protection. When you apply a concrete sealer, make sure each coat is completely dry before applying the next. Multiple coats may make your project last for much longer than you originally thought. Curing time can vary from product to product.
Adhering to the proper curing time is the only way to ensure that your concrete is properly protected. Curing time will allow the sealer to become durable so you can walk on it, drive on it, and place furniture in the space.
Curing time can also change depending on your climate or the current temperature. Take into consideration your elevation, the temperature around your home or in your home, and the changing weather.
After applying a concrete sealer, it needs to be maintained if you want to keep your concrete areas safe. Regular maintenance includes cleaning, removing debris promptly, resealing as needed, and repairing any damage as soon as possible. Maintenance may not be able to be done by homeowners on their own. Professional maintenance can extend the life of your concrete sealer while limiting the risk of damage.
Stone Edge Surface offers multiple concrete products to help improve exterior and interior spaces. We have multiple sealing products that can help protect your space or make them more weatherproof. All of our products are able to be applied with ease and can be beneficial for DIY projects.
Here are the following sealing products we offer from Stone Edge.
Many distributors offer Stone Edge Products that can be easily accessible to many consumers. Obtaining our products can make your project safer and more aesthetically pleasing. Look at our distributor list and find a distributor near you.
